In a special collaboration, the Los Angeles Theatre Ensemble (LATE) is pairing its professional directors and actors with students from Santa Monica High School’s Drama Department to present Shakespearean scenes prior to select performances of the London Globe’s Hamlet and Fiasco Theatre Co.’s Cymbeline at The Broad Stage in Santa Monica. LATE Directors Drew Shirley and Jonathan Redding are leading the students through auditions, call-backs, and rehearsals that students have to juggle with Choir practice, SAT testing, and active social lives.

“The students have all stepped up to the challenge – they are committed, intelligent, and ambitious…and we’re learning so much from them,” says LATE’s Education Director, Danika Burmester. In addition to the in-depth instruction and performance opportunities the students receive, they also workshop their scenes with visiting artists from The London Globe’s production of Hamlet and will be special guests at The Broad’s Student Matinee performances of Hamlet and Cymbeline.

The partnership between The Broad and LATE helps overcome the impact budget cuts have had in Education and the Arts by supporting an extraordinary local arts program. Under the leadership of Kate Soller, SAMOHI students are receiving excellent instruction and opportunities in drama despite the current economic crisis. “Theater has the power to transform the lives of students; they become confident, and self-assured. We are honored to be part of this collaboration,” says Soller.

“Pop-Up Shakespeare is just one of many programs we are launching to activate our plaza and create a playful experience for everyone who comes to The Broad Stage,” adds the new Manager of Outreach and Education, Carolyn Palmer. “At the Broad Stage we have an incredible capacity for providing access to world class artists, like actors from Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. We are capitalizing on the opportunities to create programs that provide not just access, but also performance opportunities for students. In the process, we’re deepening the experience of our patrons and artist as well.”

Pop Up Shakespeare features scenes from Romeo and Juliet, Much Ado About Nothing, Julius Caesar and Taming of the Shrew featuring LATE cast members Melissa Collins, Michael Pappas, Jonathan Redding, Mick Simons, and Isaac Wade, and Santa Monica High School student members Matilda Mead, Glenn Morizio, Alice Kors, Caragh Tiernan, and Olivia Worthen.

Pop Up Shakespeare Performance Schedule at The Broad Stage:
Before Hamlet at 7pm on Nov. 15 and 16
Before Cymbeline at 7pm on Dec. 13 and 15